The Flying Eagles have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the ongoing CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament holding in Egypt and also sealed a spot at this year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup after edging defending champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties in their quarter-final encounter on Monday.
Sporting Lagos goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt was the Flying Eagles’ hero, saving two penalties in the shootout to help Nigeria get the better of their opponents.
Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s side, who conquered the WAFU B zone last year reached the quarter-finals as the second best team in Group B behind Morocco.
There was little to separate both teams during regulation time in terms of goalscoring action, although Senegal’s Cheikh Thiam came close in the 42nd minute with a header that cane off the post.
Also, Flying Eagles number one Harcourt made a superb stop in the 53rd minute to deny the Junior Teranga Lions from breaking the deadlock.
The Nigerian lads also had a few half-chances of theirs through Kparobo Arierhi and Divine Oliseh, but Senegal shot-stopper Mouhamed Sissokho made several saves to keep them at bay.
Following a goalless affair at the end of 90 minutes and extra-time, a penalty shootout was needed at the end of the day.
During the ensuing shootout, Nigerian trio; Precious Benjamin, Israel Ayuma, and Emmanuel Chukwu all converted from the twelve yards, while goalkeeper Harcourt stood his ground as he saved two penalties from the Senegalese.
Senegal’s spot takers were not so lucky, as the duo; Pierre Dorival and Mame Mor Faye failed to beat Harcourt – with the Nigerian making pinpoint saves, while Ousmane Konate’s effort rattled the crossbar. Their only successful penalty came via Seydi Diouck, which was insufficient to see them through.
Nigeria currently remain unbeaten at the U-20 AFCON in Egypt, and are on course to win a record-extending eighth continental title while Senegal suffered their first defeat in a knockout match at the competition since 2017.
Furthermore, the result sees Nigeria clinch a ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Chile from 27 September to 19 October.
Nigeria will face South Africa in the semi-finals on Thursday.
